Community Highlights: Meet Shakila Stewart of Walk This Way Movement

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shakila Stewart.

Hi Shakila, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began at the age of 17 when I landed a national commercial print modeling gig for Luster’s Hair Company. Despite the age restrictions, I beat out 500 other contestants and secured one of the seven coveted spots. This initial success opened doors for me, leading to a scholarship at John Robert Powers Modeling and Acting School in Chicago. From there, I ventured into Hollywood, participating in the International Modeling and Talent Association competition. While agents urged me to relocate to Hollywood for film auditions, I chose to prioritize my college education in Illinois. 

Throughout college, I pursued a major in theatre with a focus on playwriting, directing, and storytelling. Scholarships supported my studies, and upon graduation, I had the opportunity to work as a theatre director in Pasadena, California. Despite tempting offers, I opted to remain in Illinois to further my growth. I immersed myself in the entertainment industry, working as an actress at the Black Ensemble Theatre and later transitioning to teaching musical directing to empower youth. Recognizing the need to empower women as well, I founded the Walk This Way movement to inspire women to pursue their dreams before eventually making the leap to Los Angeles. 

As my passion for empowerment grew, I expanded into coaching, specializing in confidence and presence coaching for female entertainers. Today, I am proud to be a premier coach in the industry, helping women unlock their potential. Additionally, I authored “Chin Up! You Got This! Walk this way into self-worth, your dreams, and your purpose,” furthering my mission to empower others to reach their fullest potential. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As an artist and entrepreneur, the journey has been filled with both triumphs and challenges. While there have been moments of smooth sailing, there have also been significant struggles along the way. Some of the common struggles I’ve faced include: 

Financial Challenges: Building a career as an artist and entrepreneur often requires significant financial investment. From funding projects to covering operational costs, managing finances can be a major hurdle, especially in the early stages of entrepreneurship. 

Balancing Creativity and Business: Finding the balance between pursuing creative passion and running a successful business can be challenging. It requires navigating the intersection of artistry and entrepreneurship, which can sometimes lead to conflicting priorities and decision-making. 

Overcoming Rejection and Failure: Rejection and failure are inevitable parts of the journey. Whether it’s facing rejection from clients, audiences, or investors, learning to cope with setbacks and persevere in the face of adversity is crucial for long-term success. 

Building a Support Network: Building a supportive community of peers, mentors, and collaborators is essential for navigating the ups and downs of the artistic and entrepreneurial journey. However, finding the right support network can take time and effort. 

Adaptation to Market Changes: The landscape of the art and business world is constantly evolving, requiring artists and entrepreneurs to stay agile and adapt to changing market trends, technologies, and consumer preferences. 

While these struggles can be daunting, they also present valuable opportunities for growth, learning, and resilience. By embracing challenges head-on and learning from setbacks, artists and entrepreneurs can ultimately emerge stronger and more resilient on their journey towards success. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Walk This Way Movement Inc., our mission is to empower women, youth, and female entertainers to realize their full potential through innovative programs designed to instill confidence, conquer fears, and foster personal growth. 

Our flagship program, Chin Up! You Got This™ is a comprehensive confidence training workshop inspired by my Chin Up! You Got This! Through this program, we guide women and youth on a journey to embrace their self-worth, pursue their dreams, and discover their purpose with practical tools and strategies. 

The One Pearl™ is a project close to our hearts, where we amplify the voices of women and girls. This initiative provides a platform for them to shine and celebrate their unique qualities as “The One Pearl” of Great Value. We believe in recognizing and honoring the inherent worth and beauty within each individual. 

Our latest venture, THE RUNWAY WORKOUT™, is a groundbreaking fitness program that goes beyond traditional exercise routines. By combining dance, modeling techniques, fitness routines, and affirmations, we empower women to improve their physical health while fostering confidence and self-esteem. 

What sets us apart is our holistic approach to empowerment. We understand that confidence and self-worth are not just about physical appearance but also about inner strength and resilience. Our programs address both aspects, providing women and youth with the tools and support they need to thrive in all areas of their lives. 

I am most proud of our commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. We strive to create a supportive community where women and girls from all backgrounds can come together to uplift and inspire each other. Our programs are tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges faced by female entertainers, providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed in a competitive industry. 

What I want readers to know about Walk This Way Movement Inc. is that we are more than just a coaching program or a fitness routine. We are a movement dedicated to empowering women and girls to embrace their full potential, both on and off the stage. With our innovative programs and unwavering support, we are changing lives and reshaping the landscape of empowerment in the entertainment industry and beyond. 

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is my well-being, which encompasses various aspects of my life. My faith in Christ serves as the foundation of my existence, providing me with strength, guidance, and purpose. It anchors me during challenging times and uplifts me in moments of joy and gratitude. 

Community is another essential component of my well-being. The support and connection I receive from my community nourish my soul and remind me that I am not alone on this journey. Whether it’s sharing laughter, offering a listening ear, or lending a helping hand, the bonds forged within my community bring warmth and comfort to my life. 

Family holds a special place in my heart, providing love, companionship, and unwavering support. Their presence enriches my life in countless ways, and their encouragement fuels my aspirations and endeavors. 

Eating well is vital for my physical and mental well-being. Nourishing my body with wholesome foods not only sustains my energy levels but also promotes overall health and vitality. Making conscious choices about what I consume allows me to feel energized, balanced, and nourished from the inside out. 

Lastly, healing is a continuous journey that matters deeply to me. Whether it’s healing from past wounds, nurturing inner peace, or finding solace in moments of reflection, prioritizing my emotional and spiritual well-being is essential for personal growth and fulfillment. 

Overall, these pillars of faith, community, family, healthy eating, and healing form the foundation of my well-being, guiding me on a path of balance, fulfillment, and joy. They are the cornerstones of my life, enriching each day with purpose, connection, and vitality. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ShakilaStewart.com